Buttons and Bobs

 I often refer to my overlocker it as a serger because I watch so many American youtubers  giving advice. Some of the vdieos are quite confusing especially when the presenter breaks to talk to and introduce their pet - usually a dog. It often happens.  Tilly of Tilly and the Buttons has just written a useful article about trouble shooting when the stitching seems all wrong : I have been doing nothing more with my overlocker than tidy seams with it. It has behaved well so far. Even then I tend to use my Janome sewing machine with zigzag stitch if I am in a hurry to finish anything. I have so many ambitions to improve my sewing so I must experiment.  Great article Tilly - knowing what might happen and how to fix it is a confidence booster.

I debated with myself for a long time about whether or not I should splurge money on the Tilly and the Buttons Coco pattern (£12.50 + £1 postage).  Searching on the internet for justification and examples of  other people's makes I found an amazing number of blog reports and youtube mentions. The majority like the pattern they say: the design is retro 60's style but on trend now the pattern is adaptable - i.e. tunic/dress; boat neck/funnel neck; three sleeve lengths; colour blocking possibilities; pocket options the instructions are clear for beginners who have not sewn stretch fabric before it is very quick to make the instructions are in booklet form illustrations are in colour the printed pattern is on sturdy paper rather than tissue the pattern pocket has a gusset therefore it is easier to pack the pattern neatly away. Some say: the pattern is overpriced for such a simple design the arm cycle is misshap ed/too small  the sleeves are too wide ...